How to Use a Condom

When used correctly, condoms can protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections - but it's essential that you know how to apply and remove them properly.

Condoms offer essential protection in casual relationships, for both partners. Read our guide How to Choose a Condom to learn the difference between different types of condoms.

Once you've chosen the right condoms for you and your partner, it's time to learn how to use them effectively. This guide explains everything you need to know about putting on, using and removing a condom.

How to Use a Condom

First things first: never use a condom more than once and always put a condom on your partner's penis before penetrative play begins, as early stages of an erection can contain sperm and organisms that can cause STIs.

To use a condom, remove the condom from its foil wrapper by tearing along one side and removing the condom inside. Air trapped inside a condom could cause it to break. To avoid this, squeeze the closed (teat-like) end of your condom between your forefinger and thumb and place the condom over your partner's erect penis, making sure that the roll is on the outside. While still squeezing the closed end, use your free hand to unroll the condom down the shaft of your partner's penis.

Make sure that the condom stays in place during sex, and if it rolls up, roll it back into place before continuing with your sex session. If the condom slips off, dispose of it and apply a new condom before sex continues.

After your partner has ejaculated, withdraw his penis while still holding the condom firmly in place then wrap the condom in a tissue and dispose of it in the bin. Never flush a condom down the toilet.

Need more help?

You can Contact Customer Care, who will be able to help you find the right condom. Speak to an experienced advisor via email, phone or live chat at any time of day or night. We have real human beings here 24/7 so you can get in touch whenever is most convenient for you!

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